Reaching the stage where a band can do 20th Album Anniversary tour is always a big accomplishment. Having this tour be sold out months prior to the shows only proves the band’s greatness. THRICE have not only kept their relevance throughout the past 25 years, they keep raising the musical standards as well.
California’s very own post-hardcore band, Thrice, have celebrated 20 year anniversary of their hugely successful album Artist In The Ambulance. Even if you haven’t heard of the band, chances are you have heard a song from this album. The album’s title track, The Artist In The Ambulance, is still one of their most popular songs 21 years later. With over 56 Million Spotify streams, it is currently Thrice’s second most played song on the platform.
The decision to celebrate this album with a 20th Anniversary tour had delighted Thrice fans across the world. Following hugely successful US and Australian tour in 2023, Thrice have now made their presence know in Europe and UK. Numerous sold-out shows across the continent were no surprise, following the trend of their past tours.
Bristol’s biggest non-arena venue, The Marble Factory, welcomed Thrice with a loud sold-out crowd. Moshing guaranteed when hits like Silhouette, Stare At The Sun or Under A Killing Moon made their comebacks. After playing The Artis In The Ambulance in its entirety, Thrice continued their set with multiple fan favourites. There’s no surprise Black Honey or The Earth Will Shake always make their way onto the setlist. The whole night was packed with a it after hit, and the crowd wasn’t seen standing still for a second.
As with many bands, Thrice may have changed theirs sound over the years. However, the quality has never ceased. A room full of people singing along to all songs – whether they were written in recent years or two decades ago. A proof of one’s timelessness. Passion, skills as well as pure talent make Thrice into one of a kind.
Having been part of the scene for 25 years, Thrice may be a bit of a hidden gem within the genre. Possibly unknown to some, once they appear in your field of view they are almost guaranteed to stay. The spectacular vocals of Dustin Kensrue, accompanied by the musical talent of Eddie Breckenridge (bass), Riley Breckenridge (drums), and Teppei Teranishi (guitar, backing vocals) are guaranteed to impress.
Maybe it’s their niche presence that makes for much more loyal fanbase. Sometimes you don’t need lengthy speeches to capture a big audience. And Thrice are certainly pros at entertaining and impressing people with their presence as well as musical talents.
A stage with simple vertical light poles made for a moody vibe Thrice is known for. Some bands may rely on complex stage visuals and bright vibrant lighting, but not Thrice. There is something incredibly charming about a band that can rely on their incredible sound and lyrics to lure their audience in. It’s almost like Thrice come with no frills yet at impressively high standard. What you see (and hear) is what you get. The astounding vocals you can hear on the radio are the same sounds you get to hear live. And for the non believers, Thrice have rerecorded The Artist In The Ambulance last year. Give it a listen and you will know exactly what it sounds like being at a Thrice show.
That being said, having seen Thrice numerous times over the years, it’s hard to expect them to outperform themselves. Yet, Thrice somehow always manage, and I cannot wait to see what the band brings next.
Photos by Kris Kimlickova